Conflict-evaluated maximum approximated likelihood approach for building grid maps using sonar sensors

In this paper, we address the problem of building a grid map using cheap sonar sensors, that is, the problem of using erroneous sensors when seeking to model an environment as accurately as possible. We rely on the inconsistency of information among sonar measurements and the sound pressure of the waves from the sonar sensors to develop a new method of detecting incorrect sonar readings, called the conflict evaluation with sound pressure (CEsp). To fuse the correct measurements into a map, we start with the maximum likelihood approach due to its ability to manage the angular uncertainty of sonar sensors. However, since this approach suffers from heavy computational complexity, we convert it to a light logic problem called the maximum approximated likelihood (MAL) approach. Integrating the MAL approach with the CEsp method results in the conflict-evaluated maximum approximated likelihood (CEMAL) approach. The CEMAL approach generates a very accurate map that is close to the map that would be built by accurate laser sensors, and does not require adjustment of parameters for various environments.